Surya Grahan 2024 TODAY: Solar Eclipse Not Visible in India; Catch the Great North American Eclipse LIVE Here!

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking some or all of the sun’s light from reaching Earth. This can only happen during a new moon when the sun and moon are in conjunction as seen from Earth. The solar eclipse occurring on April 8, 2024, is special because it will be a total solar eclipse visible from North America, specifically crossing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It’s often referred to as the “Great North American Eclipse” due to its path over these countries.

SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024

• Date: April 8, 2024
• Timings (IST): Starts at 9:12 PM IST on April 8th and ends at 2:22 AM IST on April 9. Totality will start at 10:08pm IST.
• Duration: 5 hours and 10 minutes

WILL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024 BE VISIBLE IN INDIA?

Unfortunately, the total solar eclipse will not be visible from India. It will begin at 9:12 pm IST, a few hours after the Sun is set. Totality will start at 10:08pm IST, and the eclipse will end at 2:22am IST on April 9.

WHEN AND WHERE TO WATCH SOLAR ECLIPSE LIVESTREAM FOR FREE IN INDIA

While you can’t see the eclipse directly in India, you can still experience the awe-inspiring event virtually! Here are some popular live streams to tune into:

NASA: Starting at 5:00pm GMT (10:30pm IST) on April 8.

Click Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MJY_ptQW1o

timeanddate.com: Starting at 4:30pm GMT (10:00pm IST) on April 8.

Click Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9M_e3JbpLY

McDonald Observatory: An astronomical research facility located in far west Texas, and part of the University of Texas at Austin, will also Livestream the celestial event.

Click Here: https://www.youtube.com/live/RHAbciq3NNY?si=gcYx9ZDspV6a0_dK

5 MAIN STAGES OF A SOLAR ECLIPSE

1. Penumbral PhaseThe faint outer part of the Moon’s shadow gradually darkens a small area around the Sun. This might be barely noticeable.
2. Partial PhaseThe Moon starts to cover the Sun’s disc, creating a crescent shape.
3. TotalityThe Moon completely blocks the Sun, creating a brief period of darkness and allowing you to see the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere). This is the most dramatic part of the eclipse.
4. Partial PhaseThe Moon gradually uncovers the Sun, returning to a crescent shape.
5. Penumbral PhaseThe Earth exits the Moon’s shadow, and the Sun returns to normal.

10 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT THE 2024 SOLAR ECLIPSE

1. Crossing PathsThe path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse will cross over Mexico, the United States, and Canada, making it a rare event for North America.
2. DurationThis eclipse will last longer than average, with the total eclipse phase lasting up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds at its longest point.
3. Totality in Major CitiesSeveral major cities, including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Montreal, will experience totality during the 2024 eclipse.
4. Repeat PerformanceThe path of the 2024 eclipse is similar to the path of another solar eclipse that occurred in 2017, creating a sort of “eclipse reunion” for those who witnessed the previous event.
5. Opportunity for ScientistsScientists will have another chance to study the sun’s corona during totality, gathering valuable data about its temperature, structure, and dynamics.
6. Tourism BoomCommunities along the path of totality are gearing up for a tourism boom, as eclipse chasers from around the world flock to witness this rare event.
7. Economic ImpactThe 2024 eclipse is expected to generate millions of dollars in revenue for businesses in the path of totality, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
8. Educational OpportunitiesSolar eclipses provide unique educational opportunities for students to learn about astronomy, the solar system, and the science behind eclipses.
9. Cultural SignificanceEclipses have held cultural significance for millennia, inspiring myths, legends, and rituals in various societies around the world.
10. Inspiration for ArtistsThe beauty and awe-inspiring nature of solar eclipses have inspired artists throughout history, leading to countless works of art depicting this celestial phenomenon.

SAFELY VIEWING THE SOLAR ECLIPSE

• Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Use specially designed solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers.
• Do not use regular sunglasses, smoked glass, or any other makeshift filter to view the sun.
• Alternatively, you can use indirect viewing methods like pinhole projectors or solar telescopes to safely observe the eclipse.

WHEN WAS THE LAST SOLAR ECLIPSE?

The last solar eclipse occurred on December 4, 2021. It was a total solar eclipse visible from parts of South America, the South Pacific, and Antarctica.

WHEN WILL BE THE NEXT TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE?

The next total solar eclipse after 2024 will occur on August 12, 2026. It will be visible from parts of North America, Europe, and Africa.

SOLAR ECLIPSE ASTROLOGY: 5 ZODIAC SIGNS TO BE MOST AFFECTED

According to the astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, people of certain zodiac signs are required to be extra aware on the day of the eclipse as they are likely to witness financial loss.

1. AriesAs per the Vastu expert and astrologer, people of Aries need to be careful about this solar eclipse. The eclipse may cause them to experience major health issues. Additionally, there is a high chance of financial loss on this day. It is suggested that people of this zodiac sign avoid investing a large amount on this day.
2. VirgoVirgo people need to pay special attention to this solar eclipse. The inauspicious effect of the eclipse can be seen majorly in the form of financial loss. Businessmen of this zodiac sign are advised to take special care on this day. Additionally, taking care of their health is crucial as well.
3. ScorpioScorpios should be extra attentive during this solar eclipse according to Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma. Due to the effect of the solar eclipse, they may experience bad times in their marital life. Apart from this, they also need to be careful at their workplace as a crucial financial loss is likely to occur. It is suggested that people of the Scorpio sign avoid changing jobs at present.
4. SagittariusPeople of this zodiac sign should avoid lending money to anyone. In addition, if someone is thinking of investing money somewhere, they should postpone it as the effects of this eclipse can be significant and adverse. Additionally, people from this sign should also be careful in their marital life while making major decisions.
5. PiscesThe total solar eclipse is going to occur in the house of Pisces, therefore, Pisces people need to be aware. Due to the eclipse, Pisces people may have to face financial loss along with health problems, as per the Vastu expert and astrologer. They may also experience trouble from some old disputes.

WATCH: NASA Shares Tips For Photography

DO’S AND DON’T TO FOLLOW ON THE DAY OF SURYA GRAHAN

1. According to NASA, people should use special-purpose solar filters or ‘eclipse glasses’ to protect their eyes. Even during a common day, people are suggested to not look directly at the Sun, without any filter.
2. NASA does not advise using homemade filters or any ordinary sunglasses. According to the space agency, the darkest pair of sunglasses will still transmit far too much sunlight, which can easily damage the eyes.
3. People are suggested to remove their shielding glasses if you have turned your face away from the eclipse or when the eclipse is over.
4. Those with special interest in space events, might want to capture the ring of fire with their cameras. But scientists don’t advise to do so. There are high chances that the concentrated solar rays might cause injury to the eyes of the looker.
5. People who are near or farsighted can wear their eclipse glasses over their day-to-day glasses in order to view the eclipse.
6. Children who are willing to watch the solar eclipse must be under parental supervision.
7. With solar eclipse in place, people are suggested to drive with their headlights on and keep the speed in control. They are also advised to maintain a good distance from other vehicles.

DOS AND DON’T FOR PREGNANT WOMEN DURING SURYA GRAHAN

1. It is advised that pregnant women remain indoors throughout the entire duration of a solar eclipse, as going outside during this time may potentially impact both the mother and the unborn child. According to traditional beliefs, even the eclipse’s shadow should be prevented from touching the unborn child.
2. Pregnant women shouldn’t watch the solar eclipse, directly or indirectly, as doing so can hurt their eyes and overall health.
3. During an eclipse, it is recommended to avoid consuming any food, as it is believed that the negative effects of the eclipse can contaminate it. However, if one experiences hunger pangs, it is suggested to consume thoroughly washed fruits.
4. Pregnant women should avoid sleeping during the duration of a solar eclipse.
5. They should not use sharp objects like needles, scissors, knives, etc. According to religious beliefs, doing this can have harmful physical effects on the unborn child.

Solar Eclipse FAQs

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking some or all of the sun’s light from reaching Earth.

How often do solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses happen relatively frequently, but total solar eclipses (where the sun is completely blocked) are less common.

What are the different stages of a solar eclipse?

There are five main stages of a solar eclipse: penumbral, partial, totality (brief period of darkness during a total eclipse), partial again, and penumbral.

Are solar eclipses safe to watch?

Looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes. Special solar eclipse glasses are required for safe viewing.

When is the 2024 solar eclipse?

The 2024 solar eclipse will occur on April 8. The exact timing will vary depending on your location.

Will the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse be visible in India?

No, the path of totality for the 2024 eclipse will cross over North America (Mexico, United States, and Canada).

How can I watch the 2024 solar eclipse live?

There will be several live streams available online. Popular sources include NASA’s website, observatories’ live streams, and astronomical organizations’ channels.

How can I safely view a solar eclipse?

Never look directly at the sun during an eclipse. Use specially designed solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers.

Can I use regular sunglasses or a camera to view a solar eclipse?

No, regular sunglasses, smoked glass, or any other makeshift filter are not safe for viewing the sun. You can permanently damage your eyes.

What are some interesting facts about solar eclipses?

The 2024 eclipse will be a longer than average total eclipse, lasting up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds at its peak. Eclipses have held cultural significance for millennia, inspiring myths, legends, and rituals.